Crichton's brows furrow with worry. He can feel Wayne's hands softening and he knows what that could lead to. But... this revelation hits him from left field. Wayne Loves him. ...Romantically? He's struck speechless for a minute just trying to process that. But he doesn't let go of Wayne's hand. He doesn't pull back.

"I... I'm sorry. I never realized." He swallows thickly, but his mouth is dryer than ever now. "Oh, Wayne. I'm so sorry. You're right that I can't... return that feeling for you. Not the same way. But I care about you. I don't want you gone from my life. But I... I guess if that's what you need to do." Despite it all, a tear drops from his eye. He never thought he'd lose a friend this way. "I don't want to hurt you."